Derby Cheese vs Munster Cheese

Derby Cheese

Munster Cheese

In this article, we'll explore the answers to the most common questions about Derby Cheese and Munster Cheese, including:

  • "What is the difference between Derby Cheese and Munster Cheese?"
  • "Is Derby Cheese and Munster Cheese the same?"
  • "How does Derby Cheese compare to Munster Cheese cheese?"
  • "How does the taste of Derby Cheese compare to Munster Cheese?"
  • "Is Derby Cheese or Munster Cheese better?"

Derby Cheese Overview

Derby cheese originates from Derbyshire, England, and is made from cow's milk. It is a semi-firm, ivory-colored cheese that is known for its buttery and mild flavor, with a hint of sweetness. The aroma is gentle, making it an approachable choice for many cheese enthusiasts. Derby is often compared to Cheddar, but it is usually softer and more moist. It is traditionally used in sandwiches or melted over dishes, but it can also be enjoyed on its own as a snack.

Munster Cheese Overview

Munster is a strong-smelling, soft cheese from the Alsace and Lorraine regions of France. It has a washed rind, which gives it a red-orange color and a distinctive pungent aroma. The flavor is rich and tangy, often enjoyed with cumin seeds and paired with beers or strong wines.

Comparing the Two Cheeses

Country of Origin

Derby Cheese comes from England and United Kingdom. Munster Cheese originated from France.

Certification

Many cheeses have some kind of protected status that makes it so they can only be produced in a certain manner and location. Derby is not a protected cheese. Munster Cheese has a AOC (1969).

Milk Type and Treatment

Derby Cheese is made with cow milk. Munster Cheese is made with cow milk that is typically unpasteurized.

Composition and Texture

Derby's texture can be described as "semi-firm, artisan". Munster Cheese has a fat content of 45-48%. Munster's texture can be described as "semisoft".

Taste and Aroma

Derby Cheese has a buttery, mild, sweet taste. Derby's aroma can be described as "mild". Munster Cheese has a strong, gamey taste. Munster's aroma can be described as "gamey, aromatic".

Appearance and Aging

Derby Cheese's appearance is colored ivory . Munster Cheese has a color of orangey-pink to orange-red , comes in flat wheel, 1-3 inches high, 5-8 inches diameter and has an aging period of 4-6 weeks to 2-3 months .

Rind and Rennet Type

Munster Cheese's rind is described as washed, saltwater solution , with traditional rennet.

Ranking

Derby is ranked #469 out of 996 types based on community views. Munster is ranked #50 out of 996 types based on community views.

Pairing Comparison

Derby Munster
Best Pairings No pairings listed. German Riesling, Riesling
Other Good Pairings No additional pairings listed. Belgian Blonde

For more details, check the full pairing guides on the Derby and Munster pages.

Side-by-Side Comparison Table

Derby Cheese Munster Cheese
Country of Origin England And United Kingdom France
Specific Origin Derbyshire Alsace, Lorraine, Franche-Comté
Certification Not Specified AOC (1969)
Milk Type Cow's milk Cow's milk
Milk Treatment Not Specified Unpasteurized
Fat Content Not Specified 45-48%
Rind Not Specified Washed, saltwater solution
Texture Semi-firm, artisan Semisoft
Taste Buttery, mild, sweet Strong, gamey
Aroma Mild Gamey, aromatic
Colors Ivory Orangey-pink to orange-red
Forms Not Specified Flat wheel, 1-3 inches high, 5-8 inches diameter
Age Not Specified 4-6 weeks to 2-3 months
Rennet Type Not Specified Traditional rennet

Which One Should You Choose?

If you prefer a semi-firm, artisan cheese, go for Derby. But if you enjoy a semisoft consistency, Munster might be the better pick. Derby has a buttery, mild, sweet taste, making it great for various dishes. Meanwhile, Munster offers a strong, gamey profile, ideal for different meals.

Compare Derby Cheese to Other Cheeses

Compare Munster Cheese to Other Cheeses

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